Higher education in Ghana continues to expand rapidly, with new institutions emerging and existing universities upgrading their programmes to meet global standards. As of 2025, the National Accreditation Board (NAB)—now under the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC)—oversees accreditation for all tertiary institutions to ensure quality, relevance, and compliance with national regulations.

This updated 2026 guide by Accra Street Journal provides a full, verified list of accredited universities in Ghana. It includes public universities, technical universities, and private universities currently authorized to issue degrees. It also dives into the structure of tertiary education, accreditation processes, and what students should look for when choosing a university.

1. Public Traditional Universities in Ghana (2025)

These are state-owned universities that offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

• University of Ghana (UG), Legon

Ghana’s premier university known for research excellence and diverse academic programmes.

• Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

A leading science and technology university with strong engineering and architecture faculties.

• University of Cape Coast (UCC)

Known for teacher education, distance education, and research.

• University of Education, Winneba (UEW)

Specialises in teacher training and educational development.

• University for Development Studies (UDS)

Focuses on development-oriented research and programmes in northern Ghana.

• University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS)

A premier institution dedicated to training health professionals.

• University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR)

Focuses on energy, environmental and natural resources programmes.

• University of Mines and Technology (UMaT)

Specialises in mining, petroleum engineering, and applied sciences.

• C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS)

A newer public university focusing on applied sciences.

• S.D. Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS)

Offers business, development, and social sciences programmes.

2. Public Technical Universities in Ghana (2025)

Technical universities focus on applied sciences, engineering, and vocational tertiary training.

• Accra Technical University

• Kumasi Technical University

• Koforidua Technical University

• Takoradi Technical University

• Sunyani Technical University

• Ho Technical University

• Tamale Technical University

• Cape Coast Technical University

• Bolgatanga Technical University

• Wa Technical University

These institutions now award degree programmes up to the bachelor’s and master’s levels.

3. Accredited Private Universities in Ghana (2025)

Private universities must have both institutional and programme accreditation. Below are the major accredited private universities:

• Ashesi University

Known for leadership, ethics, and innovation programmes.

• Central University

Offers business, theology, arts, and health programmes.

• University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) State-owned but operates with high autonomy.

A top institution for business, accounting, and communication programmes.

• Methodist University Ghana

Offers business, education, and social sciences programmes.

• Presbyterian University Ghana

Known for health sciences, IT, and business programmes.

• Pentecost University

A fast-growing university with business, theology, and health programmes.

• Valley View University

One of Africa’s oldest Adventist universities.

• Christian Service University College

Specialises in theology and social sciences.

• Wisconsin International University College

Offers nursing, business, law, and IT programmes.

• Islamic University College Ghana

Specialises in communication, business, and Islamic studies.

• Academic City University College

A top-tier engineering and tech-focused university.

• Lancaster University Ghana

A branch campus of the renowned UK university.

• Webster University Ghana

Also a global campus offering business and international relations.

• Dominion University College

Specialises in business and applied sciences.

• Knutsford University College

Known for business and IT programmes.

• Catholic University of Ghana

Offers degrees in health sciences, business, and social sciences.

• Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) State-owned but formerly private

Focuses on IT, engineering, and telecom studies.

This is not the full list — Ghana has over 70 private universities and university colleges. Full accreditation details can be confirmed via the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).

4. How to Verify University Accreditation in Ghana (2026)

Before enrolling in any institution, students must check:

✔ Institutional Accreditation

Confirms the university is legally allowed to operate.

✔ Programme Accreditation

Ensures each degree programme has been reviewed and approved.

✔ Charter Status

Fully chartered universities can award their own degrees independently.

Where to Verify:

• Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) official website

• Public notices and accreditation bulletins

• University charter certificates

With frequent policy changes, it’s crucial to re-check accreditation status each academic year.

5. Factors to Consider When Choosing a University in Ghana

Choosing a university goes beyond accreditation. Students should evaluate:

• Programme relevance

Does the university offer industry-driven courses?

• Facilities & resources

Libraries, labs, workshops, and digital learning systems.

• Industry partnerships

Universities with strong corporate ties offer better practical experience.

• Reputation & employability rates

Graduates from highly ranked universities often secure better job opportunities.

• Tuition & financial aid options

Private universities vary significantly in cost.

FAQs

1. How many accredited universities are in Ghana in 2025?

Ghana has over 100 accredited tertiary institutions, including public universities, private universities, and technical universities.

2. What is the difference between a university and a university college?

University colleges must operate under mentorship from a fully chartered university until they obtain their own charter.

3. Are foreign universities in Ghana accredited?

Yes — institutions like Lancaster University Ghana and Webster University Ghana have full GTEC accreditation.

4. Can private universities award their own degrees?

Only if they have received a presidential charter. Otherwise, they issue degrees through their mentoring institution.

5. Does GTEC update accreditation lists every year?

Yes. Students should always verify before applying.

Source: Accra Street Journal 

Last Updated on November 30, 2025 by Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.

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